DUBAI: A recent report by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) highlights significant growth in Dubai’s health tourism sector in 2023. The report shows a surge in international medical tourists, with over 691,000 visitors spending more than AED 1.03 billion on healthcare services, up from 674,000 tourists and AED 992 million in 2022.

This growth reflects global confidence in Dubai’s high-quality healthcare across various specialties. Dubai’s competitive pricing, cutting-edge technology, and top-notch medical expertise have strengthened its position as a leading health tourism destination. The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 also supports this growth, aiming to double the economy and enhance Dubai’s global status.

Dubai’s indirect revenue from health tourism reached AED 2.3 billion in 2023, contributing significantly to the city’s GDP and boosting key sectors. The report also notes that 58% of health tourists were women and 42% men, with most visitors coming from Asia (33%), Arab and GCC countries (28%), and Europe (23%).

The top medical specialties sought by tourists include dentistry (29%), dermatology (27%), and gynaecology (13%). Region-wise, Asian visitors primarily sought gynaecology services (49%), while Arab and GCC tourists preferred dental services (48%).

Also read: What is Mpox? Learn causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention

DHA Director-General Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi praised the private medical sector’s role in Dubai’s health tourism success, noting their contributions to providing exceptional patient experiences in a secure environment. He emphasized DHA’s commitment to continuously improving the healthcare system, ensuring Dubai remains a global leader in medical tourism and development.